Understanding how macrophages and fibroblasts interact in asbestos-related toxicity
Official title: Macrophage-fibroblast interaction is required for asbestos-induced toxicity
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10945715 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells and lung cells work together when exposed to asbestos, which could help us understand how asbestos can harm the lungs and find new ways to treat related diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $544,610 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL175661-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10945715 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to asbestos or do not have asbestos-related health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between macrophages and fibroblasts in the context of asbestos exposure and its toxic effects. By co-culturing human lung fibroblasts with macrophages derived from patients, the study aims to explore how these cells communicate and influence each other's behavior, particularly in response to asbestos. The researchers will analyze changes in cell signaling pathways and metabolic processes that may contribute to asbestos-induced toxicity. This work could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of asbestos-related diseases and identify potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from asbestos-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cell interactions in disease contexts, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carter, a Brent — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Carter, a Brent
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.